Shakespeare's Tragedy Richard III From The Old Globe

The Old Globe presents Shakespeare's tragic masterpiece about a ruthlessly ambitious man who seeks the crown at any cost. One of literature's most memorable villains, Richard, Duke of Gloucester, uses his charm, cunning and wit to move up the political ladder -- without hesitating to murder those who stand in his way. This production is part of the 2012 Shakespeare Festival and takes place at the Lowell Davies Festival Theatre, nestled in the shade of the fragrant eucalyptus trees at Balboa Park. This outdoor theater is a favorite venue of Old Globe patrons.

Reviews & Ratings

I hesitated hemmed and hawed. Fond as I am of Shakespeare I had grown tired of his comic book play, Richie III, where the oh so arch villain rubs his palms in glee as he snickers and smirks at the disaster he wroughts. This is not the thoughtful soul searching of Hamlet, the self ruin of Lear or even the education of Henry V...this is old school medieval morality turned on its head, almost puppet worthy in its archness. But oh that Richard, he still manages to pull us against our will ....... I went and found for the most part that it was very good indeed.

The best is the well done Richard III not worrying about the color of roses or destiny of England he is transported to some vague mid-century time in a sort of motorcycle leather outfit contorting and smiling with the pure joy of how meaningless and fun playing with life and the dunces who occupy power can be. Dick Cheney would approve. It is this pleasure with the game that moves the play along and for me the logic of it has always been there, that RIII was always more camp than history even in SS's original concept.

There is still the paint by numbers aspect, the simple cardboard adversaries, and that ever annoying Margaret who was every bit Richard's equal in evil with none of his humor presented in this play as a crone Cassandra. But timing, special effects, excellent subtle sound amplification and that daft demon win out. And the Old Globe crew are real pros. This is no SS in the Park assembly.

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Quotes & Highlights

Description

Richard III is one of the most diabolical and outrageous villains in all of literature. A ruthless Machiavellian, the brilliant and power-hungry lord embarks on a bloody campaign to seize and keep the English crown. Shakespeare paints an unforgettable portrait of obsession, seduction, betrayal and a man who would be king.

This show takes place in an outdoor theater with stadium seating. It is recommended that you dress warmly when attending performances. Blankets are available for rental.